FIFA to discuss international match calendar on Sept. 30

By Selcuk Bugra Gokalp

ANKARA (AA) - FIFA has announced it will begin a new phase of consultation around the international match calendar for women and men, which is set to expire at the end of 2023 and 2024 respectively.

In this regard, the world football governing body has invited its member associations and other stakeholders (representatives of the players, clubs, leagues, confederations) to a summit on Sept. 30.

Besides, the idea of holding a biennial FIFA World Cup is expected to be on the agenda. "There is a broad consensus within the game that the International Match Calendar should be reformed and improved," a FIFA statement said on Sunday.

The European football authority UEFA, South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and several national football associations including Turkey and Germany have already dismissed the biennial World Cup idea.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin even warned FIFA of a potential European boycott of the World Cup if FIFA's plans go ahead.

The press release said that technical advisory groups have been established under the leadership of Arsene Wenger, FIFA's chief of Global Football Development, and two-time FIFA Women`s World Cup-winning coach Jill Ellis.

"The debate will also involve fans from around the globe," it said. "FIFA is committed to being a forum for meaningful debate by engaging with a wide range of stakeholders including fans and looks forward to discussions on the sustainable growth of football in all regions of the world, at all levels."